AUBURN – The public is urged to utilize extreme caution in navigating any of the lakes, rivers, canals or other waterways in Cayuga County over the course of the next several weeks. Due to recent rainfall, all waterways are at an elevated level. The New York State Canal System is running much higher than seasonal levels.

This creates a situation where large amounts of dangerous debris such as trees and branches are washed off the shore and into the waterways, often floating unseen below the surface making navigation extremely hazardous.

For more information on the Canal System, mariners may contact them or verify updates on current closings at 1-800-4CANAL4 or visit www.canals.ny.gov .